We have yet to receive confirmation either from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) or the Department of National Defense (DND) regarding the June 30 incident. Nonetheless, I am deeply concerned about the reported acts of aggression against the PCG vessels as this violates our sovereignty and territorial integrity as well as endangers the safety and…
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Amid calls for an across-the-board pay increase being sought by the labor sector, the P40 grant in the daily minimum wage by the NCR Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) is a welcome development. This demonstrates that the NCR RTWPB recognizes the need to adjust the current wage structure and has acted promptly on…
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As Chairperson of the Senate Committee on National Defense and Security and a staunch advocate for the welfare of our brave servicemen and women, I believe we must carefully consider and discuss this crucial issue. Kailangan na itong pag-usapan ngunit hindi dapat minamadali. Kailangang makahanap tayo ng isang sistema na katanggap-tanggap sa lahat. Our military…
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Having served as Senate President Pro Tempore for six years (from 2007 to 2013), presiding over countless plenary session proceedings, I acknowledge the importance of maintaining professionalism and respectful conduct within our esteemed institution. I have, as the presiding officer, handled instances where emotions run high during debates and we, officers of the Senate intervene…
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My deepest condolences to the family and friends of our former colleague, Sen. Rodolfo G. Biazon. I had the privilege of working alongside Sen. Pong Biazon during the 13th and 14th Congress while my mother, former First Lady and Sen. Luisa “Loi” Ejercito Estrada were his contemporary in the 12th and 13th Congress. We witnessed firsthand his…
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Having a permanent secretary of the Department of National Defense (DND) is crucial for several reasons. It ensures continuity and stability, expertise, effective coordination, policy implementation, accountability, and representation in defense and security matters. These contribute to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the defense sector in safeguarding the nation’s security. As the third civilian…
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I am honored and grateful to President Marcos for signing into law the bill on the fixed term of Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) officers, Republic Act No. 11939 which amended RA 11709 or the Act Strengthening Professionalism and Promoting the Continuity of Policies and Modernization Initiatives in the AFP. This is a significant…
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It’s lamentable that only 49.31% of the 168 million subscribers have complied with the law. We’re hoping that in the next 90 days, the 100% target registration will be met. Isang malaking katanungan ay kung bakit mababa ang bilang ng mga tumatalima sa batas na ito. Base sa nakalap ko na impormasyon, hindi user-friendly ang…
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Not only will it put the country in bad light but claims that there are trafficked foreigners being forced to work in cryptocurrency scam operations are very serious allegations that merit investigation by concerned agencies. Under RA 10364 or the Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2012, law enforcement agencies are mandated to immediately initiate…
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Two-thirds of this year’s budget of the newly-established Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) or P10.6 billion had been earmarked for welfare services of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), including the Emergency Repatriation Program. This is more than enough to cover the repatriation of an estimated 200,000 OFWs currently in Taiwan, if the government is forced to…
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